I.D. of a Civil War Sword???

Modelof1891 · #1 01-22-2010, 06:35 PM

Does anyone have an idea of the maker of this sword?
It was owned by a family desendent of General Thomas Lanier Clingman.

Combat · #2 01-22-2010, 07:49 PM

All I know about your sword is,it's not a standard issue.With the lion head on the handle it's probably was made in England.Lots of swords from the civil war era came from there.Does it have any eagles or USA markings in the engraving on the blade? Without being able to see the rest of the blade I can't tell if it's a calvary sabre or a foot officers sword.Look on the blade up close to the handle and see if there is any kind of company name.Hope this little bit of info can help,post some more pics of the blade. JEFF

s&wchad · #3 01-22-2010, 08:22 PM

I believe that's an Imperial German Sword. Do a search for lion head pommel for more info.

Muley Gil · #4 01-23-2010, 12:10 AM

Swords of all kinds were carried during the War of Northern Aggression. Many came from Europe and were purchased by officers on both sides.

n4zov · #5 01-23-2010, 09:43 AM

Check with these guys:

U.S. Militaria Forum

Modelof1891 · #6 01-24-2010, 07:35 PM

Thanks for the response!! I purchased the sword from Duke Gibson, brother of Bill Gibson, who are decendents of General T.L. Clingman. I purchased a U.S. marked 1851 Colt Navy serial number 58148 from Bill. After much research, I have found that their Great-Great Grandfather was married to Clingmans sister. Duke said his father told him of the history on these items and the sword was said to be a "Dress Sword". The sword belt is in a museum in Texas along with another gun of his.

Here is a close up of the pommel: